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Saint
Barbara Greek Orthodox Church |
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The History of the Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Parish
The origins of the Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church date from the late 1930's. At that time, several immigrant families dedicated themselves to founding an Orthodox house of worship in order to preserve and perpetrate the Orthodox Christian Faith in America. During these formative stages, religious guidance was provided by Father Constantine Genis. Services were conducted in a small chapel at Trinity Episcopal Church and Greek School classes were held at the Louis Lowry Davis Center. The following clergy served the parish during its establishment and succeeding years of growth: Father Constantine Genis, Father Ambrosios Mandalaris, Father Constantine Mitsopoulos, Father Constantine Pallasis, Father Anthony Sipsas, Father Peter Rellos, Father Lambros Vakalakis, Father Demetrius Leon, Father Stephen Vlahopoulos, Father Peter Balam, Father George Hadjis, Father Constantine Tsompanas, and Father Nicholas Manousakis. By the late 1970's, the growth of the community had far exceeded the church facilities. New accommodations were needed for worship services, religious education, and other expanding programs. In 1977, a spectacular site was acquired in the foothills above Santa Barbara and was subsequently blessed by Bishop Meletios of Christianoupolis on December 10, 1978. A period of sustained work ensued. Considerable research, design and planning were required for development of the new facilities. Following many years, including four major public hearings, the necessary permits for construction were granted. On May 17, 1985,Bishop Anthony of San Francisco, assisted by Father Constantine A. Zozos, presided over ground-breaking ceremonies. Construction began on December 1, 1985 and was completed ten months later. On October 12, 1986 Bishop Anthony and Father Constantine A. Zozos, assisted by area clergy and the faithful members of the Parish, opened the doors of the new church and Orthodox Center. Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church continues its tradition as a vital member of the community of Saint Barbara and its dedication to the teachings of the Orthodox Faith. |
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